Methods and microarrays compatible with dual functionality optical drives

Abstract

A microarray with optically recorded information and a sample capable of producing a signal as a response to external influence, or a precursor which, when activated or combined with a reagent, produces a sample capable of generating a signal. The microarray is compatible with a dual functionality optical drive. A method for acquiring information about a sample comprises directing a probe to a sample at a microarray to produce a signal from the sample, wherein the microarray is compatible with a dual functionality optical drive, and detecting the signal. The information optically recorded on the microarray can be in the CD, DVD or HD DVD or Blue Ray format.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 12 / 422,742, filed Apr. 13, 2009, which in turn is a Continuation of International Application No. PCT / US2007 / 081442, filed on Oct. 15, 2007, which claims the benefit under 35 USC 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 829,308 filed on Oct. 13, 2006, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Microarrays have become increasingly popular in biology, biotechnology and pharmacology, making possible manipulation or analysis of multiple samples. Generally, microarrays is a piece of glass, plastic or other material comprising a plurality of different molecules such as oligonucleotides, proteins, e.g. antibodies, synthetic compounds or particles, such as cells or tissues, have been affixed at separate locations in an ordered manner. Microarrays most commonly used in analytical investigations include DNA, protein and antibody microarrays. ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0015]The invention provides an apparatus and method for studying samples and can considerably increase a user's base of analytical or diagnostic tools. The invention can be employed in various applications in research, analytical or clinical laboratories, or in other applications. For instance, it can improve and simplify point-of-care diagnostic procedures and monitoring applications, such as pathogen and biohazard monitoring, field detection of biological and chemical agents, etc. In many examples, the microarray described herein is compatible with conventional CD, DVD or HD DVD players and can be used in personal computers, e.g., desktop or laptop models. Since optical discs are familiar and commonly used in the household setting, the invention can make analytical applications available to users in residential locations and in non-specialized offices and laboratories. The compatibility of the optical drive / analytical device combination with personal computer architecture enables use of the invention in households and other settings where conventional microarray-handling equipment is impracticable or prohibitively expensive.

[0017]A combination of conventional data storage function with analytical capabilities in a single assembly makes it possible to implement new uses, for example store the software for controlling analysis, processing the data on the microarray, writing results on the microarray, e.g., for further handlings, thus facilitating the analytical process. Once written on the microarray, data obtained can be stored, archived, forwarded to a caregiver or otherwise handled.

Problems solved by technology

Existing microarrays often require special equipment and procedures that limit the use of microarrays to the specialized laboratory setting, driving upwards the cost of even routine biological, environmental or clinical tests.

Due to the limitations of existing microarray technologies, it is difficult and often impracticable to use microarray techniques at a point-of-care diagnostic setting, households or field conditions.

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